The UAE can expect to receive an influx of tourists over the coming months following a recent decision by the UAE Cabinet to exempt transit passengers from all entry fees for the first 48 hours of their stay, a report said.

Furthermore, the transit visa can be extended for up to 96 hours for a fee of Dh50 ($13.6), a report in WAM said citing an announcement made by the cabinet.

A number of express counters will be set up at the passport control halls across all UAE airports to facilitate the issuance of transit visas, the report said.

According to Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index, Dubai is already the fourth most visited city destination in the world after Bangkok, London, and Paris. The new decision is expected to further boost tourism to the UAE, making it the top destination in the world.

The Cabinet also adopted a number of visa facilitations for residents, families and people overstaying their visa to cater for a wider segment of the society.

Approval was also given to a new legislative package, including a review of the current residency system to allow a two-year extension of the residency period for the dependents of their parents after finishing their university studies.

In the same context, the Cabinet adopted a decision to grant people overstaying their visa a chance to leave the country voluntarily without a "no entry" passport stamp. A new six-month visa will be introduced for job seekers who overstayed their visa but wish to work in the country. The temporary visa enhances the UAE’s position as a land of opportunities and a destination for talents and professionals.

As for Individuals who entered the UAE illegally, they will have the chance to leave voluntarily with a "no entry" stamp for two years given that they provide a valid return ticket.

Equally, in a step aimed at simplifying the process and easing the financial burden on individuals wishing to adjust or renew their visa, they can now do so for a fee without having to leave and re-enter the country.